How to File a Motor Vehicle Claim

If your vehicle is damaged by an accident, you'll need to file an insurance claim. It is important to understand the procedure.

Insurance companies will send an adjuster to examine your vehicle damage. It's not required to be present during the inspection, but it is recommended to bring your policy and any other documentation that is relevant.

Take Pictures

Have you ever watched a show where investigators comb over every square inch of the scene, snapping the tiniest detail--from footprints to discarded chocolate wrappers? Make use of the same level focus when looking at your accident scene. It is crucial to document as much of the incident as it occurs to ensure that you have something tangible to prove your case later on.

Getting pictures of the damage to both cars is a must and you should consider taking close-ups of the areas damaged. These photos will help insurance companies and also expert witnesses in determining the size of different objects. Record reference points, such as the location of traffic lights or stop signs in your photographs. These can be used to determine the actions of the driver at fault for the accident.

If you can, take photos of the other driver and their passengers as well as witnesses. It is possible to take a photo of their license plate. Photograph emergency responders, their vehicles and any person who is placed on a gurney or in an ambulance.

Only submit the photos to the insurance company if you are instructed by your attorney or required to do by the court. In other words, you could accidentally be giving evidence against your own claim. If you change the date on your photographs the insurance company might doubt your claim.

Seek medical attention

The first thing to do after an accident is to seek medical attention. Not only is this crucial for your own health however, it also ensures that any injuries you have are documented. In many personal injury lawsuits you will be seeking compensation for medical bills and other damages. Medical records are crucial for your claim.

Even if you don't notice any signs that you could notice you should make an appointment to see your primary health care provider or an emergency room. Your doctor will provide you with a thorough medical evaluation and assess the severity of your injuries. They will also be able to give you the treatment you require.

Following the treatment plan of your doctor will allow you to recover faster and improve the condition. This includes filling your prescriptions, taking any over-the-counter medications, participating in physical therapy, adhering to instructions on time off of work, and attending follow-up appointments.

In this process, it is essential not to mention anything that could be wrongly understood by an insurance adjuster. The insurance company could try to discredit the injuries you've suffered to deny or reduce the amount of compensation you receive. This is the reason it is advised that you do not speak with any adjusters from insurance companies unless you have an attorney present.

Contact an Attorney

Accessing legal representation is essential for those injured. Attorneys can help them manage their stress and understand how to channel their energy. Additionally, attorneys can also analyze the evidence and facts of a case to determine whether it's worth fighting in court.

The insurance company is primarily a business and their aim is to get as much money from insureds as possible while paying out as little as they can (in the sense of). If you are in the midst of an accident, it might be tempting to accept an offer that is low because it's the most convenient decision to make. This is a mistake that could have disastrous consequences later on.

When you submit an insurance claim the adjuster for your insurance will come out to assess the damage to your vehicle and will review receipts for personal property damage and medical bills. They will probably also interview witnesses and review police reports. It is a good idea to get repair estimates from local contractors or auto shops prior to meeting with the adjuster, so they are aware of what to expect when it comes time to repairs.

An experienced motor vehicle accident law firms vehicle accident lawyer can make sure that all information required is provided in a timely manner and that the right documents are provided to an insurance company. He or she will provide advice and recommendations regarding how to handle the claims adjuster, how to handle a settlement, and what to do in the event that an insurance company is unresponsive and acting unethically.